Tent camping near Lyndonville, Vermont offers access to northeastern Vermont's forested terrain along the Connecticut River watershed. The region sits in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, characterized by low mountains, river valleys, and mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-80°F while dropping to 50-60°F at night, even during peak camping season.
What to do
Paddling and fishing: The Connecticut River provides excellent paddling opportunities for campers. At Maine Railroad Trestle, paddlers appreciate "a really nice rocky beach with easy access for loading and unloading. It's also a nice spot to fish from," according to Sarah C. The site connects to the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail.
Wildlife viewing: Northeast Kingdom forests host diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Green River Reservoir State Park Campground, "the Beaver Meadow" offers exceptional wildlife spotting. One camper notes, "I love this location because you have to paddle out to a site for camping. There is a lot of beautiful wildlife, and they do an amazing job at preserving the sites."
Backcountry hiking: The region connects to extensive trail networks. Experienced hikers can access tent platforms at remote sites like Guyot Shelter where, according to one visitor, "We got to the site, claimed our platform and hiked over to West Bond to catch a beautiful sunset." The shelter area includes "bear box, food area, water source, cabin, Privy, and platforms."
What campers like
Remote paddling access: Campers consistently rate boat-in sites highly for their privacy. At Scott C. Devlin Memorial site, a visitor notes, "This is another beautiful site along the CT River Paddler's Trail. It is well maintained and tucked on a knoll in a pine forest. There is a picnic table, fire ring and composting toilet box seat."
Swimming spots: Several river and reservoir sites offer natural swimming areas. One camper at Lyman Falls State Park Campground mentions "a great swimming area in a large deep eddy and the remnants of an old dam can be seen upstream." The site also features "a nice riverbank to fish from and enjoy the afternoon sun."
Mountain biking proximity: For active campers, some sites provide direct trail access. At Serenity Field, visitors appreciate being "literally feet away from kingdom trails." One review notes it offers "semi private tent only camping in a beautiful field! Can pull your car right up to the site. Super quiet and secluded."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many sites require water planning. At Molly's Falls Pond State Park Campground, "there are 5 unofficial, remote campsites at the park. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a boat launch with 2 fishing platforms, plus a nearby port-o-let." No drinking water is available on site.
Tick precautions necessary: Multiple reviews mention tick concerns. At Maine Railroad Trestle, a camper warns, "If you walk through the campsite, there is a massive cornfield, just beware that the ticks in the field are insane! They weren't bad in the campsite but in the grass, they were epic."
Boat-in access logistics: River access requires planning. At Scott C. Devlin Memorial site, "The takeout is easy to miss if you aren't looking as it sits right in the bend of the river. There is a set of wooden steps that go down into the water at a relatively steep angle. Be sure you tie your boat up while unloading as there is a fair amount of current sweeping around the bend."
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites: At some locations, platforms make family camping more comfortable. At Guyot Shelter, a reviewer notes, "This is a very large campground. With a large shelter renovated in 2019. Approx 10 platform sites. Some are very isolated and some with great views."
Swimming access: Families appreciate easy water access at certain sites. Green River Reservoir State Park Campground provides natural swimming areas where "the swimming and fishing are awesome," according to one repeat visitor who notes their family tries "to make our way north to Green River Reservoir every summer."
Capacity considerations: Family groups should note site capacity limits. At Lyman Falls State Park Campground, each site has "enough flat space to pitch a couple of tents (anywhere from 2 to 5 depending on which site)." Sites feature "nice large pines offering ample shade."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The Lyndonville area primarily offers tent camping with minimal RV facilities. Most campgrounds reviewed only accommodate tent camping, with one reviewer specifically noting many sites require "carry in carry out" practices.
Access road considerations: For those with small trailers, road access can be challenging. Near Lyman Falls State Park, one visitor notes, "you can access the camping area via VT102 but there is no signage so having a Vermont Atlas is most helpful," highlighting the unmarked access points common in the region.
